Traction Power Systems Technician

Valley-Metro; Phoenix (AZ); On-site; USD 49,000 - 74,000; Full time

Job summary

Valley Metro is seeking a Traction Power Systems Technician to ensure safe, reliable operation of rail power systems. You will inspect, test, troubleshoot, and repair overhead catenary systems and traction substations, performing high‑voltage maintenance and emergency responses.

The role requires a High School Diploma or GED and at least one year of experience in electrical maintenance of traction power and catenary systems, with confinement to safety rules and DOT compliance.

Qualifications

• Knowledge of overhead catenary system maintenance processes.
• Knowledge of traction power substation equipment and operations.
• Electrical safety practices and procedures.
• Troubleshooting methods for electrified systems.
• Familiarity with inventory control and parts management procedures.
• Record-keeping and maintenance documentation requirements.
• Proper maintenance procedures for tools and equipment.
• Using a computer and related software.

Responsibilities

• Inspect, test, maintain, troubleshoot, and repair overhead catenary systems, traction power substations, and related high-voltage electrical infrastructure.
• Perform preventive and corrective maintenance on AC and DC electrified rail systems to ensure safe, reliable power delivery.
• Work at heights using ladders and bucket trucks; operate safely in confined spaces.
• Assist in training less experienced Traction Power Systems Technicians.
• Diagnose and resolve electrical malfunctions using appropriate tools and test equipment.
• Respond to routine and emergency work orders; operate specialty vehicles and field equipment.
• Maintain records, inspection logs, and inventory; participate in safety activities; assist team members and contractors.

Skills

Overhead systems

Traction substations

Electrical safety

Troubleshooting HV

Inventory control

Documentation

Tool maintenance

Computer skills

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Job description

Purpose of Role: Ensures the safe, reliable, and continuous operation of rail services by inspecting, maintaining, troubleshooting, and repairing traction power substations and overhead catenary systems. Performs high-voltage electrical maintenance, preventive and corrective repairs, and emergency response.

The full pay range for the position is $35.60 to $53.40 per hour with an anticipated starting rate between entry ($35.60) and midpoint ($44.50) of the range. It’s essential to note that the actual hourly rate offered will be determined based on several factors, including skills, qualifications, experience, education, certifications, training and internal equity considerations.

This position is designated as safety-sensitive and is subject to the Valley Metro RPTA’s Drug and Alcohol Program. High School Diploma or GED and one (1) year of experience in:

• Electrical maintenance of traction power and catenary systems
• Skilled trades involving high-voltage systems
• Equipment and tool maintenance in electrified environments
• Or an equivalent combination of education and experience sufficient to successfully perform the essential duties of the job such as those listed.
• Additional education cannot be substituted for experience.

Human Resources reserves the right to call only the most qualified applicants to the selection process.

Medical Examination: Employment is contingent upon successfully passing a DOT physical examination.

Drug Testing: Employment is contingent upon successfully passing a pre-employment drug test. This safety-sensitive position is subject to the Valley Metro RPTA’s Drug and Alcohol Program, including drug and alcohol testing as required by program policy.

Background Investigation: Employment is contingent upon successfully passing a background investigation.

Licenses: Valid Arizona Driver’s License and ability to maintain insurability under Valley Metro’s Vehicle Insurance Policy.

Position requires the incumbent to successfully qualify to operate light rail vehicles.

Incumbent is required to obtain a Class B CDL permit within 90 days of attending New Employee Orientation and obtain a full Class B CDL with air brake endorsement within 6 months of hire.

The following functions are intended to provide a representative summary of the primary duties and responsibilities of this position and are not an exhaustive list of all duties that may be performed.

• Inspect, test, maintain, troubleshoot, and repair overhead catenary systems, traction power substations, and related high-voltage electrical infrastructure.
• Perform preventive and corrective maintenance on AC and DC electrified rail systems to ensure safe and reliable power delivery.
• Perform work in high places using ladders and bucket trucks for access.
• Safely work in confined spaces, using all required specialty equipment and PPE.
• Assist in training less experienced Traction Power Systems Technicians.
• Diagnose and resolve electrical malfunctions using appropriate tools, test equipment, and established troubleshooting methods.
• Safely work around energized circuits and high-voltage systems in compliance with all safety rules, procedures, and regulatory requirements.
• Respond to routine and emergency work orders, operate specialty vehicles and equipment, and support field operations as required.
• Maintain accurate records, inspection logs, and inventory; participate in safety activities; assist team members and contractors; and complete special projects as assigned.
• Performs other duties of a similar nature and level as assigned.

Required Knowledge & Skills:

• Knowledge of: Common overhead catenary system maintenance processes. Traction power substation equipment and operations.Electrical safety practices and procedures.
• Troubleshooting methods for electrified systems.
• Familiarity with inventory control and parts management procedures.
• Record-keeping and maintenance documentation requirements.
• Proper maintenance procedures for tools and equipment.
• Using a computer and related software.

Skill in:

• Inspecting and diagnosing issues with overhead and substation systems.
• Repairing and maintaining electrified power components safely.
• Operating high-rail vehicles, specialty tools and equipment proficiently.
• Responding promptly to emergency maintenance calls.
• Maintaining accurate logs and facilitating inventory efficiently.
• Assisting colleagues and contractors as needed.
• Performing routine cleaning and preventive maintenance tasks.
• Communication and interpersonal skills to exchange information and receive work direction.

Work is performed in a combination of office, vehicle, and outdoor environments with routine use of standard office and specialized equipment. The position requires the ability to perform heavy physical work, including lifting and carrying up to 50 pounds frequently and up to 100 pounds occasionally, with or without reasonable accommodation. Essential physical functions include the ability to sit, stand, walk, lift, carry, push, and pull; climb, kneel, bend, reach, twist, crouch, crawl, and balance; and use fine motor skills, visual acuity, hearing, and verbal communication. The work environment may include noise, distractions, time pressure, detailed or exacting tasks, frequent task changes, multitasking, emergency situations, irregular schedules, overtime, and working as part of a team.

The position involves regular exposure to mechanical, respiratory, electrical, and physical hazards; extreme temperatures; noise and vibration; and moving equipment. Periodic exposure may include fire hazards, communicable diseases, wet or humid conditions, chemical hazards, and explosives.

Valley Metro is a Drug-Free Workplace and an Equal Opportunity Employer.